If you’re using iCloud Drive and have questions about how it works, you’re not alone! Many people assume that iCloud Drive functions like an external hard drive, but it’s actually a synchronization service. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how to use iCloud Drive effectively.
What is iCloud Drive?
iCloud Drive isn’t just extra storage; it’s a way to keep your files synced across all your devices. When you create or save a file in iCloud Drive, it’s accessible not just on your Mac but also through iCloud.com and any other devices connected to your iCloud account.
Accessing Your Files
When you look for files in iCloud Drive on your Mac, you might find a folder named “My Stuff.” This folder exists locally on your Mac, meaning it mirrors what’s stored in iCloud but isn’t a separate drive. Any changes you make to files here will instantly update across your devices.
Understanding File Movement
Dragging files around in Finder works just like any other folder on your Mac. If you drag a file from the iCloud Drive folder to another folder, it will move the file instead of copying it. Similarly, moving files into the iCloud Drive will also move them rather than create duplicates.
Should You Use iCloud Drive?
If you’re looking for a way to keep files synchronized across devices, iCloud Drive is a great choice. However, just know that it’s not a backup service. If you edit a file and save it, those changes are reflected across all devices immediately. Mistakes are copied too, so consider your edits carefully!
Managing Storage with "Optimize Mac Storage"
If you have “Optimize Mac Storage” turned on, your less-used files may be removed from your hard drive when space gets tight. But don’t worry; when you need a file that’s been removed, your Mac will seamlessly fetch it from iCloud.com and download it back to your local storage.
For those who prefer to keep their local storage clear, you can choose to remove a downloaded file while still keeping it accessible in iCloud by right-clicking on the file and selecting “Remove Download.” This will convert it into a link, which you can click to download the file again when needed.
Keeping Track of Your Files
If you want to see the status of your files, you can turn on iCloud Status by going to Finder > View. This will show you which files are stored locally and which ones are only in iCloud.
Why Use iCloud Drive?
The main purpose of iCloud is to sync files among all your Apple devices. If that’s what you’re after, iCloud Drive is a solid option. You can save space on your devices with the “Optimize Storage” feature, which automatically manages your files.
Important Note on Backups
Remember, iCloud Drive is not a backup service! If you accidentally delete a file, it will be removed from all devices instantly. For backups, consider other options, like using Time Machine or an external SSD. Time Machine allows you to create backups that won’t sync, ensuring your important files are safe.
Conclusion
In summary, iCloud Drive is excellent for syncing files across your devices but falls short as a backup solution. Knowing how to manage files and understanding its limitations will help you utilize it effectively. So, ask yourself: Are you looking to sync files across devices, or do you need a backup solution? Choose accordingly, and enjoy the benefits of iCloud Drive!
